How to Own a Roller Skating Rink

Business Plan

Skating promotes physical fitness and to help build self-esteem among school age children, according to the Roller Skating Foundation. In the United States a professional organization of roller rinks owners has been around since 1937. A roller rink is usually a magnet for young people and can be a successful business when operated specifically for younger people who like to skate. Owning and operating any business requires an investment, an active business and marketing plan, and the dedication to pull it all together.

Things You'll Need

• Investment capital and business loans
• Equipment and supplies
• Insurance
• Advertising and marketing plan

Instructions

1. Form a business plan. Starting a roller rink will follow the same course as starting any small business. Consider where you want to have your rink since you will want the local area to have plenty of young people. Your location should be easily accessible for local teens and preteens.

2. Consult the Small Business Association (SBA) and banks. Your business plan and capital will determine how much money you will need to borrow. The SBA may have specific programs to assist you in opening your rink.

3. Find real estate. Your choices will probably be to buy a closed rink and reopen it, or either rent or buy a space once used as a rink or a space you will convert in to a rink. If starting your rink in an area where your patrons will drive, make sure you provide adequate parking. If you are starting a rink in an urban area, make sure your rink is easily accessible by public transport.

4. Hire appropriate contractors. Building a new wooden floor or repairing an existing one at a roller rink is a specific skill set. Consult with the national skating organizations to gain the knowledge you need when hiring contractors.

5. Purchase or lease the amenities specific to your roller rink. Most rinks supply skates to patrons for a fee, so you will need to find a supplier for skates. Most rinks also provide either snacks or vending machines for skaters. These side operations can be money makers for you in your venture, so pay special attention to how you lease or buy your equipment.

6. Cover yourself for any liabilities specific to a rink. You will need a strong liability insurance policy since the potential for injury in a roller rink is high.

7. Market your rink. Depending on your budget, use local television, radio, newspaper and direct mail marketing to make people aware of your new rink.Target local organizations and groups that work with children, pre-teens and teens. Youth groups, churches, scouting groups and school districts often are looking for destinations for social outings. The local chamber of commerce should be able to direct you to an advertising and marketing company or professional who can help you reach local skaters.

Tips & Warnings

• Join your local chamber of commerce, small business association and other business groups to circulate your name in the business community.

• Large groups of teenagers having a good time can sometimes get out of hand. Consider having security services and a good relationship with your local police department.

References

• "Business Plan Kits for Dummies"; Steven D. Peterson, Peter E. Jaret, Barbara Findley Schenck; 2010
• Roller Skating Association International

Resources

• Southeastern Skate Supply: Building a Roller Skating Rink
• United States Chamber of Commerce
• United States Small Business Association